As with any building this project has encountered its challenges and its glories. Let’s face it, when it comes to building you want people who are going to do what they say and do their job well.  This is an honest and forthright exchange of the truth as a home owner and now a general contractor of this project.

Deborah's Golden Nuggets
1.  Never enter into a labor and materials contract with a General Contractor. 
     Get an estimate for all the work. Stick to it. 
2. As with anything, it is all in the planning.  Make sure you have everything that you want up front. 
    Changes cost money...even little changes.
3. Make sure they clean up after themselves...that should be in your contract.
4.  Nothing happens on time...take a deep breath and go to Sams Club and buy a huge bottle of TUMS.
5.  It is always more expensive than you think.
6. Don't believe anyone...they may believe it themselves...but it doesn't mean they are going to stick to it.
7. Call the Better Business Bureau before you do anything and go to Angie’s list to see if there is any feedback on them.
8. Pay people in thirds....Don't make a final payment until YOU are happy with the work and the work is complete.
9. Enjoy every minute.  Feel everything.  Be human! 
10.  Know that "this too shall pass" and before you know it, you will have made a statement in the building of your new home.
11. Make sure that you get what you want.  Designers and builders have a tendency to ignore or better what you want. 
12.  As I said, check out www.angieslist.com for all your subs to make sure they have been well received.